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Description

We prefer to not deal in absolutes, but the Storck Absolutist has effectively changed our minds. Why? Because in the age of cookie-cutter frame design, it's rare to see a piece that truly follows the ethos of 'form follows function.' However, it's even more rare that this practice lends itself to a form as beautiful as the Absolutist.

Starting with the carbon fiber itself, the Absolutist was constructed from Storck's own uni-directional carbon fiber. Why uni-directional? Well, compared to a woven carbon fabric, uni-directional carbon is oriented as it sounds, with one direction, or on one axis. And while this makes the production process incredibly complex in regards to both load path and force direction determination, the payout is worth it to Storck. You see, compared to woven layups, uni-directional fibers tend to better stiffen frames, while also improving vibration dampening. And, this is achieved at a much lower overall weight. However, Storck was far from finished in any of these regards.

Let's approach the Storck layup process in a short series of steps. First off, Storck begins the design with 3D CAD imaging. This digital process provides Storck with the precise data and dimensions necessary for the development of the mold. From there, the CFR/UD fibers are soaked in resin and hand-placed into the computer-generated mold. Once placed in the mold, the fibers are heated and pressed into place with an air channeling tool. Afterwards, the fibers are smoothed over by hand, ensuring an unprecedented level of preciseness and detail to the layup.

To add even more rigidity to the frame, Storck wrapped the molded uni-directional fibers with its proprietary woven carbon fibers. Essentially, these differ from uni-direction in that the fibers are oriented on two or more axes. Like it sounds, the fibers are woven, almost like a knit, and accordingly, the fibers handle flexural and tensile loads on multiple axes harmoniously as a collective. So, in even simpler terms, ask yourself a question: What's stronger, a rope or an unwoven collection of rope fibers? In its application, this theory proves to supply more impact resistance, durability, and more importantly, a higher stiffness-to-weight ratio. In fact, through both independent and in-house testing, the Absolutist is proven to have a stiffness-to-weight ratio directly on par with the Aernario, placing well above the market zeitgeist.

It's worth noting that the Absolutist is, in fact, molded in a monocoque. This means that the frame is comprised of specific modulus carbon fibers throughout the frame, or in other words, it features a one-piece molded construction. This eliminates excess weight by requiring less carbon and resin application at the tube junctures of the frame. As a result, the frame only tips the scales around 1050 grams.

Moving into frame specifics, you'll find a massive PressFit 86 bottom bracket juncture that efficiently transfers power to the rear triangle. And not surprisingly, we see the reoccurring theme at work again of increased weight reduction coming as a result of increased power transfer. At the seatstays, Storck gracefully originates them from a solid box-section above the brake caliper. And again, this results in increased comfort via vertical compliance, however, it also directly equates to a higher level of lateral rigidity. Additionally, you'll find that the Absolutist is one of the most painstakingly rider-tuned frames on the market. This is due, in part, to Storck's proportional tubing concept, where every frame size uses adapted dimensions, wall thickness, tube diameter, and tapering to ensure the exactly intended ride quality regardless of size. Rounding out the construction is the frame's defining features, internal cable routing.

For the fork, Storck incorporated its latest iteration of the trend-setting and award winning Stiletto, the Stiletto 340. The first version of the Stiletto was introduced in 1999, and was widely hailed as the lightest fork on the planet. And while the Stiletto Light only tipped the scales at 280 grams, the 340 gram Stiletto found here is still lighter than most of the featherweight, aftermarket forks. The 340 features a tapered design that's been mated to a carbon reinforced head tube and a 1-1/8 - 1-1/4 inch integrated headset.

Altogether, these technologies, paired with an unrelenting dedication to hand-built perfection, create a frame that's balanced, lightweight, compliant, and most importantly, fast.

The Storck Absolutist is available in the color Blue/white/carbon and in five odd sizes from 51 to 63cm. Please note that this frame features a PressFit 86 bottom bracket, a 36.6mm seatpost collar, and a CNC-machined aluminum derailleur hanger. So, when planning your build, note that the frame accepts 31.6mm seatposts and Shimano press-fit standard bottom brackets.

Here's what others have to say...

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Pretty, Stiff and Rock Solid!

Familiarity:
I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

In looking for a bike to replace my old KUOTA, I wanted something with an ability to turn a few heads and stick out on my club rides -- populated by TREKs and SPECIALEDs --and I decided on the Storck. I'd happened by the factory near Frankfurt a couple of years ago and was very impressed by their commitment to tech -- very German. The guys at Completive Cyclist were great in helping me get the frame ordered and with the little bits I needed to mount my Campy Chorus group. They even put the BB cups in for me at N/C. Even my wife, a non-biker, I'm afraid, noticed the bike right away and gave it a thumbs up for its looks. This is one fast, straight-ahead machine. It sprints like a demon and climbs like a nothing I've ever ridden. I'm a big guy, and flex has been an issue (6'2" and 190). I also right knees in and do rub the right one on the massive top tube a bit too often. Also, although the stiffness is desirable over 20 mph, I feel the need for something a bit more compliant for my current riding style. I have owned A LOT of bikes over my 55 years, but this is about the prettiest. The issue, however, is that form follows function and the function of this rock (I'm talking granite) solid machine just doesn't fit in with the comfort I'm now after. I know, I want my cake and to eat it too. If you want a no-flex bike -- buy it and you'll be pleased.

Great review and AWESOME looking bike. I am just about the same size albeit slightly taller and heavier and 10 years younger. I bought this frame for the exact reasons stated. Can't wait to build it and start climbing. Very nice build!